Frederick "Wayne" Turner

Frederick “Wayne” Turner, age 85, of Vandalia, Missouri, passed away peacefully on Tuesday, November 20, 2024, at the Baptist Home of Tri-County. A private graveside service will be held at a later date.

Wayne was born on February 3, 1939, to William and Mary (Starkey) Turner in Briscoe, Missouri. He was one of twelve children, seven girls and five boys. In 1959, Wayne married, and to this union, four children were born. Later in life, Wayne married Donna Brewer in 2015.

He is survived by his wife, Donna Turner, stepchildren; Jennelle Brewer of Las Vegas, NV, Kenny and Shari Brewer of Vandalia, Donny and Kelli Brewer of Raymore, MO, and Dawn and Scott LaRue of Raymore, MO. He is also survived by eight step-grandchildren, one step-great granddaughter and two sisters-in-laws, Bonnie Turner and Linda Turner. 

Wayne was preceded in death by his parents, seven sisters: Clara Mae Smith, Lillian Creech, Alice Wagner, Melva Travis, Dorothy Keith, Vivian Turner, and Evelyn Myers; and four brothers: Forrest Turner, Charles Turner, Richard Turner, and James Arnold.

Wayne was a dedicated and dependable man. He was honest, hard-working, and always ready to lend a hand to anyone in need. If he said he would do something, he did it. He generously gave his time and money to others, never expecting anything in return.

In his later years, Wayne became a committed member of the Southside Baptist Church, where he worked tirelessly to help maintain the church building and grounds. He contributed to various church projects, from cleaning and repairing to landscaping and construction. His efforts were essential in ensuring the church’s continued operation, and his legacy is evident in the well-maintained building that still stands today, over 50 years after its completion.

Wayne was a meticulous and careful man who took pride in maintaining his possessions and home. He mowed his yard twice a week and always kept his property looking immaculate. He was a skilled carpenter, and from a young age, he was eager to learn and contribute to building projects. As an adult, he built his own home and even donated land to the Sulfa Lick Baptist Church where he built the original church that still serves the community today.

Wayne was a devoted husband, stepfather, and friend. He spent his life caring for those he loved, always prioritizing their needs over his own. His kindness, generosity, and strong work ethic will be remembered by all who knew him.

Memorial contributions may be made to Southside Baptist Church or to the Turner family, in care of Waters Funeral Home.